Tourist Possibilities - Nicaraguan Volcanoes

Across the horizon of Nicaragua, you can see volcanoes peek up at many locations along the way. The country has many volcanoes, some active, some dormant, but all breathtaking. Some are more accessible than others, and some are more scenic than others, but they are all testaments to Earth's violent core. Here are two of special interest you may want to check out while in the country.

San Cristobal is the tallest volcano in the country, at just under 1750 meters. It remains active, and frequently billows gas and water vapor from its summit. It is possible to scale this volcano, but it is no easy task. The volcanic sand provides no traction, meaning you slide downhill one step for every two steps forward. The hike above the tree line is especially challenging. On a clear day, Honduras, El Salvador, and the Gulf of Fonseca are visible from the peak.

Consiguina also rests above the Gulf of Fonseca. At 850 meters, it is not high, but a good hike none-the-less. The last time this volcano erupted was in 1835, and the outcome was a huge crater that is now a lake. Views from the top of this peak take in the Pacific Ocean, and it is possible to drive most of the way to the top before beginning your hike.

It is possible to drive all the way to the summit of another active volcano, Masaya. There is even a parking lot with attendants. The air is sulfur-laden and thick, but not so overwhelming that you can't peer past the rim and into the crater. As you approach, you will see huge lava flows along both sides of the roadway. It is possible to walk to a few other craters at the top if you so choose, but this is definitely the most accessible volcano around.